Did you know that the average Dutch person does about 150 washes per year? That's a big mountain of water, energy and detergent. And let's be honest: most of us use more detergent than necessary. Not because we are dirty, but because the foam is so soothing.
Washing more sustainably does not have to be a task. In fact, it saves you money. Here are the steps that really make an impact.
The biggest wasters in your laundry routine
Before we go to solutions, let's look at the facts. Because you can only improve something if you know where it goes wrong.
Too high temperature.Most clothes clean well at 30 degrees. Yet 60% of Dutch people wash at 40 or higher as standard. That costs up to 40% more energy per wash.
Too much detergent.More detergent = cleaner, right? No. Too much detergent leaves residue on your clothes and in your machine. That residue actually attracts dirt and bacteria. It literally makes your clothes dirtier.
Half empty drum.Each wash uses the same amount of water and energy, whether you wash 3 shirts or a full drum. Wait until your machine is nice and full (don't cram, but well filled).
Unnecessary washing.That T-shirt you wore for an afternoon? Venting is probably enough. Jeans? You can wear them 5 to 10 times before washing them. Your clothes will also last longer.
7 steps to a more sustainable washing routine
1. Wash at 30 degrees (or colder)
Modern detergents are designed to work at low temperatures. Unless you're washing towels or bedding, 30 degrees is almost always sufficient. It also keeps your clothes looking good for longer.
2. Dose accurately
Follow the dosage instructions on your detergent. Or better yet: choose a detergent that you cannot overdose on.Wax stripsare ideal for this: each strip contains exactly the right amount. No guessing, no spills, no waste.
3. Fill your drum
A full drum uses the same energy as a half empty one. Combine washes where possible. Sort by color and temperature, not by "I just want this washed now."
4. Skip the fabric softener
Fabric softener coats your clothes with a layer of chemicals. That feels soft, but it makes your clothes less absorbent (towels!), less breathable (sportswear!) and more difficult to clean. In addition, most fabric softeners are not exactly environmentally friendly. If you want freshness, bescented pearlsa better alternative.
5. Pay attention to the packaging
A plastic bottle of detergent per month is enough. Look for alternatives with less packaging material. For example, wax strips are supplied in cardboard packaging that you can easily throw in with the waste paper. No plastic, no hassle.
6. Maintain your washing machine
A clean washing machine washes more efficiently. Run an empty program at 60 or 90 degrees once a month, or useDeep Clean Tabsto remove limescale, grease residues and bacteria. It also makes your laundry smell fresher.
7. Use the drying line
After the washing machine, the dryer is the biggest energy guzzler in your laundry room. Drying outside or inside costs nothing and is better for your clothes. Bonus: sun bleaches stains from white textiles.
What does it yield?
Let's do the math. If you consistently wash at 30 degrees, always fill your drum well and no longer buy fabric softener:
- Energy costs:up to 40% lower per wash
- Laundry detergent:up to 30% less consumption with correct dosage
- Clothing lifespan:beautiful for longer due to less wear
- Water consumption:fewer washes = less water
That adds up quite a bit on an annual basis. And all you have to do is change a few habits.
Frequently asked questions
Will my laundry really be clean at 30 degrees?
Yes, provided you use a good detergent. Modern formulas with enzymes break down dirt at low temperatures. Exception: you can wash bed linen and towels at 60 degrees for hygiene reasons.
Are laundry strips as effective as liquid detergent?
In independent tests, good washing strips score comparable to liquid detergent. The advantage: you automatically use the correct dosage and there is no plastic packaging.
Is sustainable washing more expensive?
No, rather cheaper. Less detergent, lower energy costs, fewer washes and clothes that last longer. The investment is mainly in adjusting your routine.
Prices that are accessible for 
